Lady Party

Lady Party

Tackling the middle-aged lady's mental load, one topic at a time.

  1. MAR 18

    Should Kids Specialize Early in Sports? with Sports Mindset Coach, Will Ferris

    Youth sports used to mean Saturday morning games and orange slices. Now? For many families, it feels like a year-round commitment filled with travel teams, private coaching, early specialization, highlight reels, and the constant pressure to keep up. In this episode of Lady Party, we unpack why youth sports have escalated so dramatically over the last 10 years—and what parents can do to support their kids without getting stuck on the hamster wheel. Our guest is Will Ferris, a former NCAA Tournament basketball player who later competed professionally on the FIBA 3x3 World Tour with Team Los Angeles and served as a Coach & Advisor for the USA Basketball 3x3 program—an Olympic sport that is now gaining traction at the college level. Today, Will works on the mental side of athletic performance as the Associate Director of Athletic Mindset and Performance at Eastside Catholic High School, helping student-athletes build confidence, resilience, and perspective. He has also mentored athletes connected to organizations like the Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Sounders, Boise State, and Seattle University. Together we tackle the questions every sports parent is asking: • Has youth sports actually escalated—or are we imagining it?• Should kids specialize early or play multiple sports?• What actually predicts long-term athletic success?• How do parents support their kids without adding pressure? Will explains why mindset—not just talent—is often the biggest predictor of long-term success, how burnout shows up earlier than ever, and what elite development programs focus on that youth sports often miss. A major theme of the conversation is redefining what an “outcome” actually means. Many parents focus only on the immediate result—did the team win or lose? But great coaching and development are about the long game: helping kids build resilience, accountability, and a healthy relationship with competition. Growth comes from honest reflection, not blame. That means helping kids own both the good and the bad of their performance—rather than falling into the victim mindset that can come from blaming coaches, politics, or circumstances. We also talk about: • What parents should actually say after games• The biggest sideline mistake adults make• How to help kids develop confidence instead of pressure• Why joy might be the most important trait in young athletes Plus a few of Will's rapid-fire favorites: • Athlete hero: Ray Allen (Seattle Sonics legend)• Worst sideline behavior: parents coaching from the stands• Best trait in young athletes: joy You can follow Will on Instagram @ChillFerris and learn more about his coaching work at:https://www.willwellnesscoaching.com If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re doing too much—or not enough—when it comes to your kid’s sports, this conversation will give you perspective, practical tools, and a healthier way to think about youth athletics.

    47 min
  2. FEB 25

    How to Protect Your Sleep with Mass General Brigham's Dr. Sogol Javaheri

    This week on Lady Party, we’re joined by @MassGeneralBrigham's Dr. Sogol Javaheri, MD, MA, MPH. She is a physician specializing in sleep and circadian rhythm disorders at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, and also an Assistant Professor at @Harvard Medical School. Because apparently “I’m just tired” isn’t a diagnosis. If you are a middle-aged woman who: Falls asleep fine… but wakes up at 3:07am with a full board meeting happening in your brain Thinks wine helps sleep (we regret to inform you…) Has accepted exhaustion as a personality trait Or hasn’t slept properly since you became a Mom This episode is for you. And consider this your permission slip to protect your sleep at all costs. Dr. Sogol Javaheri walks us through what’s actually happening in women’s bodies — especially in peri- and postmenopause — why sleep apnea often looks totally different in women, and how long it really takes to recalibrate after the baby years (brace yourself: it can take up to six years to fully get your sleep cycle back on track after raising a kiddo). Yes. Six. Years. We also get into the sleep products that are actually worth your money, the alcohol myths we need to retire, and why some over-the-counter melatonin supplements are basically the Wild West (spoiler: some have Viagra in them!) Key takeaways from this episode: The ideal sleep temperature is typically 65–72°F — but experiment to find your personal sweet spot. Bamboo sheets and temperature-regulating pajamas (@CozyEarth gets a strong endorsement from Dr. Javaheri), blackout curtains in the summer, humidifiers, and weighted blankets (about 10% of your body weight) can genuinely improve sleep quality. White noise can help — but it doesn’t necessarily need to run all night. A 10,000 lux lightbox for 10–15 minutes a day can support circadian rhythm (ideally under physician guidance). Alcohol reduces REM sleep, fragments sleep later in the night, relaxes your airway (which can worsen snoring and sleep apnea), and is best avoided within 3 hours of bedtime. Try eliminating it for 2–3 weeks and assess how you feel. Women often experience sleep apnea differently than men — more like insomnia, frequent waking, or waking up to pee multiple times a night. As estrogen and progesterone decline in peri- and postmenopause, women’s risk of sleep apnea increases — eventually equaling men’s risk. You don’t automatically need a sleep lab or a CPAP mask — home sleep tests are widely available and effective. If you’re waking at 3am with anxiety, create “worry time” before bed: write down what’s on your mind and brainstorm next steps so your brain doesn’t process it at night. Over-the-counter melatonin is loosely regulated. Some brands have wildly inconsistent dosing and have even been found to contain unexpected ingredients. Talk to a physician before supplementing. This conversation is science-backed, practical, validating — and occasionally humbling. Sleep is not a luxury. It’s healthcare. Tune in for a smart, funny, eye-opening conversation with Dr. Sogol Javaheri that may completely change how you think about your nights — and your mornings.

    52 min
  3. FEB 11

    Why "I'm Fine" is Killing Your Soul with Intimacy Expert, Allana Pratt

    In this episode, we delve into the meaning of intimacy with Allana Pratt—and why so many smart, capable, high-functioning women still feel disconnected, anxious, or stuck in their relationships. We talk about plant medicine and psychedelics not as an escape, but as a conscious way to check in rather than check out, especially for those of us who are hypervigilant, controlling, and always “on.” Allana explains how integrated emotion actually reduces anxiety—and why your brilliant mind can only take you so far. When fear fuels the ego, drive replaces intuition, and we lose touch with what our body, heart, and soul have been trying to tell us all along. We unpack how shame drops us into fear, how the ego rushes in to protect us, and how addictions—alcohol, porn, serial first dates, people-pleasing—often mask a deeper longing for safety and nourishment. This includes redefining sex as something that is nourishing, not performative or transactional. Allana shares practical tools for reconnecting with a long-term partner, especially when you feel more like roommates than lovers. The truth? You can’t take intimacy to the next level until both partners feel seen and safe—and there are ways to build that safety. We also explore self-trust as trusting all your capacities—so you can respond instead of react. That inner safety is magnetic: it calms your nervous system, soothes your kids, and draws your partner closer. When safety comes from within rather than external validation, everything shifts. Finally, we talk about why erotic intimacy is not just good for your relationship—but for your kids. Modeling a connected partnership matters. Self-first isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Your partner can’t fill you up or fix you—you have to fill your own cup first. If you’ve been feeling disconnected, guarded, or afraid to fully be yourself in your relationship, this conversation will meet you right where you are—and show you a way forward. Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/allanapratt/⁠ Patreon: ⁠www.patreon.com/allanapratt⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/coachallanapratt⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/⁠allanapratt Website: ⁠www.AllanaPratt.com⁠ Free Gift: ⁠www.allanapratt.com/top5mistakes⁠ Book a Call with Allana: ⁠www.allanapratt.com/connect Foria: https://allanapratt.com/foriaALLANA20⁠ Use discount code: READYNOW for $400 savings!

    57 min
  4. JAN 21

    How to Plan an International Move With Kids (What to Do First, Second, and Third)

    What if you just… did it? Not forever—but for six months, a year, or longer. This episode is for anyone quietly daydreaming about a family sabbatical, an overseas home swap, or packing up and starting fresh somewhere new. Erin sits down with her friend Kelly Herkert, who moved her family—husband and two kids—to Luxembourg for what they thought would be a two-year adventure… and are now well into year three. Together, they unpack the full reality of relocating abroad as a family: the logistics no one glamorizes, the emotional whiplash that doesn’t show up on Instagram, and the unexpected ways the experience reshapes kids, marriages, and identity. They cover everything from schools, housing, healthcare, and visas to friendships, loneliness, grief for what you leave behind, and the moment you realize you don’t actually want to leave yet. This is not a “sell everything and move to Europe” fantasy episode—it’s honest, grounding, and deeply practical. If you’ve ever thought, Is this irresponsible? Are we going to mess up our kids? Could we actually do this?—this conversation is for you. Key Takeaways for Listeners There is no perfect time—transitions matter more than timing Kids are resilient, but adults need more support than they expect Logistics are manageable with planning and the right local help International schools are often designed for transition and mobility Healthcare abroad is frequently an upgrade, not a downgrade Loneliness is normal—and temporary—with intention and time This kind of move builds resilience you cannot replicate at home Don't do it if you're running away from something—only do it if you’re running toward a new experience.

    50 min
  5. 12/12/2025

    SPECIAL HOLIDAY EPISODE: What Moms Actually Want for Christmas (Hint: It’s Not Expensive)

    What do women actually want for Christmas? In this episode, Erin and Megan get real about why so many holiday gifts miss the mark—and why the most meaningful ones are rarely the most expensive. This conversation is for two people: women who struggle to articulate what they want (or feel guilty wanting anything at all), and partners who genuinely want to give a thoughtful gift but aren’t sure where to start. If you’re a woman who defaults to saying “I don’t need anything,” we unpack ideas that go beyond stuff—gifts that create space, ease, comfort, and a feeling of being truly seen. And if you’re a partner listening, consider this a practical, no-panic guide: there is still plenty of time, and you don’t need a massive budget to give a gift that actually lands. We also draw a hard line on one non-negotiable: no mom’s stocking should ever be empty on Christmas morning. Period. That is the single worst offense a partner can allow to happen—and it has nothing to do with money. A filled stocking says, you matter, I planned ahead, and I thought about you. Lucky for you Savannahstockingco.com exists. And if you order by 12/16, you can make sure she has a stocking by Christmas Eve. These are gifts that require a little intention, not a lot of money. Things that say, I pay attention to your life, I see what you carry, and I thought about you when I chose this. From small upgrades to everyday life to gestures that remove mental load or protect her time, Erin and Megan walk through ideas that feel personal, meaningful, and completely doable—if you start now. Because at the end of the day, the gifts women remember most aren’t about price tags. They’re about thought, effort, and feeling understood. Companies mentioned: IT Cosmetics Bye-Bye Under Eye Savannah Stocking Co ⁠ Dame Quince Mint & Lily

    33 min
  6. 12/10/2025

    The End of Everything (and Why That Makes Life Beautiful) with Astrophysicist, Dr. Katie Mack

    Today’s episode is a mind-bending, hilarious, slightly-terrifying, and unexpectedly heart-warming conversation with Dr. Katie Mack — theoretical astrophysicist, Hawking Chair of Cosmology at the Perimeter Institute, science communicator, and author of The End of Everything (Astrophysically Speaking). Katie spends her days studying the universe’s biggest question: How does it all end?In her book, she breaks down the five leading theories behind the ultimate cosmic finale — from vacuum decay to the big crunch — and trust us, none of them are pretty. Or slow. Or gentle. But here’s the twist:This episode is not an hour of doom.It’s an hour of perspective. Katie uses the fate of the cosmos as a giant metaphor for the value of our fleeting human lives. Yes, the universe is going to end (on a very, VERY long timeline), but instead of panicking, Katie wants us to feel grounded in the meaning and urgency of the moment we’re in right now. Every second is rare, precious, and cosmically improbable — and that’s the point. We also get into: What it’s like to make a career out of studying destruction How she protects her mental health while thinking about dark matter and cosmic annihilation How Black Holes work... spoiler: if you fall into one, they do stretch you out... and it really is called sphagettification. What dating looks like when you might be the smartest person in the room… and possibly the planet Why curiosity is her favorite antidote to fear And her secret hope for humanity before the universe calls it quits This is truly one of the most fascinating conversations we’ve ever had.Katie is brilliant, humble, funny, and wildly relatable — even as she casually explains the death of the cosmos. So settle in, prepare to have your mind expanded, and enjoy this gorgeous reminder:The universe won’t last forever… which is exactly why we should savor every moment we get. Take a listen. You won’t regret it.

    1h 4m
  7. 11/19/2025

    Middle-Aged Men's Health: What Women Should Look For and When to Nudge the Men in our Lives to Go to the Doctor!

    Today on Lady Party, we’re flipping the script and talking about the men we love — partners, husbands, brothers, friends — and what really happens to their health in midlife. Because let’s be honest: men are not famous for rushing to the doctor (only 60% of men get their annual check-up vs. 93% of women). So if we ladies are the ones doing the nudging… we might as well know what we’re nudging for. We’re joined by Lincoln Smith, PA-C, founder of The Clinic here on Bainbridge Island — a new, approachable healthcare practice specializing in men’s health, women’s care, and pediatrics. Lincoln has spent a decade in emergency and outpatient medicine, and he’s on a mission to make healthcare less intimidating and more personal, especially for men who aren’t sure where to start. In this episode, we break down: Is there actually a “male perimenopause”? How testosterone works (and what it actually feels like when it’s low) Why energy, mood, libido, weight, and sleep shift in midlife Erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation — what’s normal, what’s treatable, and how couples can talk about it Hair loss, weight gain, GLP-1s, and the emotional side of aging The one thing women can do this week to support the men they love Plus, a lightning round where Lincoln debunks man-myths, shares the one test every guy should get by 40, and tells us who he’d invite to dinner. Key takeaways: Low testosterone isn't all that common. In fact, if you're feeling lethargic it might not have anything to do with "low T." Chances are it's more about sleep, alcohol, stress, and exercise... Snoring is not “just snoring.” It’s a symptom — and sleep apnea dramatically affects mood, energy, weight, cardiovascular health, and sexual function. Erectile dysfunction is driven by cardiovascular health, hormones, stress, diabetes, and sleep — not just “age” or psychology. ED can be an early warning sign of vascular disease. Hair loss is emotional — and treatable. Lincoln recommends evidence-based options like oral minoxidil (supported by recent NYT coverage). Creatine miiiiiight not be great. Lincoln notes it can affect kidney health in some men. GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Mounjaro) can help men lose weight, but must be paired with resistance training and protein intake to protect muscle mass and testosterone. Cardiovascular health is the silent driver of a lot of midlife issues — including ED. High LDL = bad, HDL = good; know your numbers. It’s Lady Party… but today, the men get a seat at the table

    44 min
  8. 10/22/2025

    Gaming = Good. (Yes, seriously!) ...with Dr. Rachel Kowert

    Think video games are melting your kid’s brain? Think again. This week on Lady Party, we sit down with Dr. Rachel Kowert — internationally recognized expert on gaming, mental health, and digital safety — to get real about what’s actually happening when our kids (and, let’s be honest, we) pick up a controller. Rachel has advised the United Nations, the U.S. State Department, and Congress on the psychology of gaming and has published over 100 papers on the subject. She’s also the author of Gaming and Extremism and The Video Game Debate and the founder of Psychgeist, a multimedia studio creating accessible, science-backed content about gaming, psychology, and culture. In this episode, we talk about:🎮 The truth about gaming and mental health (spoiler: shooter games does not a violent child make.)🧠 What parents get wrong about “video game addiction.”💬 How to talk to your kids about online safety and healthy gaming habits.👾 Why games can actually boost creativity, empathy, and problem-solving.💸 The billion-dollar world of e-sports and how scholarships are changing the game.👑 And yes, which games Rachel actually recommends (Mario Kart FTW!) We even get into the fun stuff — like why Grand Theft Auto can be totally fine (for grownups), why Nintendo is the most family-friendly system, and which gaming character Rachel would have dinner with (Princess Zelda, of course). And when she’s not slaying myths about gaming, Rachel’s hydrating with @Tatcha Mineral Water (“the fountain of youth”), reading Alchemized, and insisting The Iliad is the best book ever written. Whether you’re raising a Roblox junkie, a future Twitch streamer, or you’re just trying to understand what the heck a “server” is — this conversation will leave you feeling informed, calmer, and maybe even a little inspired to pick up a controller yourself. Knowledge can be scary, but fear of the unknown is scarier. There’s no scientific link between violent games and violent behavior. Games can teach creativity, strategy, empathy, and resilience. Video game “addiction” isn’t one-size-fits-all — context matters. Parents who play and talk about games with their kids have stronger connections. Nintendo offers the best family-friendly options for beginners. E-sports is a legit career path — with real college scholarships. Mario Kart is a perfect family starter game. Adults? Go ahead, enjoy Grand Theft Auto guilt-free. Not all screen time is created equal — connection beats consumption. Want trustworthy game reviews? Check out Common Sense Media. Psychgeist offers free, science-based videos, newsletters, and even a deep dive on Taylor Swift Easter eggs. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.Follow Rachel on Instagram: @drrachelkowertExplore more at psychgeist.com. 🔑 Key Takeaways

    50 min
5
out of 5
20 Ratings

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Tackling the middle-aged lady's mental load, one topic at a time.

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